Preliminary Roost Assessments & Emergence Surveys For Bats
Bats are one of the UK’s most fascinating and ecologically significant protected species. Playing a crucial role in controlling insect populations and supporting biodiversity, these nocturnal mammals rely on safe roosting sites for breeding, hibernation and shelter and, due to their importance to our ecosystems, all bat species and their roosts are fully protected under UK and European law.
Therefore, for anyone undertaking development or land management projects, it is vital to ensure that bats and their roosts are not harmed or disturbed. This is where professional ecological surveys are required.
At Ecology Consulting, our team of highly qualified ecology consultants provide expert Preliminary Roost Assessments (PRAs) and Bat Emergence Surveys. These specialist services are designed to identify potential or confirmed bat roosts, ensure legal compliance and provide practical solutions that allow your project to proceed while safeguarding one of Britain’s most iconic mammals.
Why Preliminary Roost Assessments Are Essential
A Preliminary Roost Assessment (PRA) is the first stage of any bat survey: providing a clear picture of whether a structure, building or tree has the potential to support roosting bats.
During the PRA, our ecologists carry out a detailed site inspection, which will be supported by desk-based research into existing bat records in the surrounding area. We look for evidence of bat presence, including droppings, staining, feeding remains and potential roosting features such as lifted roof tiles, cracks in walls, loft voids or tree cavities.
From this inspection, we will assign the site a suitability rating which then determines whether further surveys are needed. If potential is identified, an Emergence Survey/s will follow.
By carrying out a PRA at the earliest stage of your project, we can help you avoid costly delays and ensure that the correct ecological measures are taken from the outset.
What Is A Bat Emergence Survey?
A Bat Emergence Survey, sometimes called an Activity Survey, is used to confirm the presence or absence of bats within a building, structure or tree that has shown roost potential during the PRA.
These surveys are carried out between May and September, when bats are active. Our ecologists position themselves around the structure at dusk to observe bats emerging to forage, or before dawn to record their return to the roost. Using advanced bat detectors and infa-red or thermal recording equipment we can identify species by their echolocation calls, estimate the number of bats present and determine precise entry and exit points.
The results provide us with the evidence needed to demonstrate whether bats are using the site, the species involved and the scale of the roost. This data is vital in supporting planning applications and, if necessary, Natural England, Natural Resources Wales or NatureScot licence applications for works that may affect bats or their roosts.
Legal Protection For Bats
In the UK, bats are strictly protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended) and the Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2017.
Under these acts it is a criminal offence to:
- Deliberately capture, injure or kill a bat.
- Damage, destroy or obstruct access to a bat roost (even if bats are not currently present).
- Disturb bats while they are roosting.
Breaching these laws can lead to costly fines and potential custodial sentences. For this reason, professional surveys are not only recommended but often a legal requirement for planning approval.
Our ecology consultants are fully licensed and highly experienced in conducting bat surveys to the standards required by planning authorities and conservation legislation.
Why Choose Ecology Consulting For Your Bat Surveys?
With over 20 years of ecological expertise, at Ecology Consulting we are a trusted provider of professional bat surveys across the UK. We work with developers, planners, architects and conservation organisations to deliver reliable and legally compliant ecological services.
When you choose us you’ll benefit from our:
- Qualified Expertise - Our team are members of the Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (CIEEM) and hold the relevant survey licences.
- Comprehensive Services - From desk studies and PRAs to emergence surveys and licence applications, we provide end-to-end ecological solutions.
- Practical Mitigation - Where roosts are confirmed, we design tailored mitigation strategies, such as installing bat boxes, timing works to avoid sensitive periods and creating new roosting opportunities.
- Client-Focused Approach - We understand the importance of keeping projects on track. Our surveys are delivered efficiently, with clear reporting to satisfy planning authorities.
When Are Bat Surveys Required?
A bat survey may be required if your proposed works involve:
- Demolition or conversion of buildings (barns, houses, churches, bridges).
- Roof works, including replacing tiles, repairing flashing or loft conversions.
- Tree works, particularly felling or heavy pruning of mature trees.
- Major land development such as housing, infrastructure or utilities projects.
Local Planning Authorities will often request a PRA and, if necessary, follow-up emergence surveys as part of the planning application process.
Protecting Bats While Supporting Development
Bats are a key indicator species for environmental health, and protecting their habitats is vital for maintaining biodiversity. At Ecology Consulting, we are committed to delivering solutions that safeguard wildlife while allowing responsible development to proceed.
By choosing our experienced team of ecology consultants, you can be confident that your project will remain legally compliant, environmentally responsible and stay on track.
Book A Bat Survey With Ecology Consulting Today
Whether you require a Preliminary Roost Assessment to scope potential bat use, or full emergence surveys to confirm activity, our expert ecologists are here to help: offering nationwide coverage, competitive pricing and fast turnaround times to support your project needs.
Contact our team today to arrange your bat survey and ensure your project complies with UK wildlife legislation while protecting these remarkable nocturnal mammals.
